Does the rapid healing of duodenal ulcers mean longer remissions?

ABSTRACT

A study was conducted to test the response to therapy and the relapse rates of endoscopically-confirmed duodenal ulcers. Endoscopy to check for healing was performed at 4 and 8 weeks in cases receiving H2-blockers and misoprostol and at 14 and 28 days in cases receiving a proton pump inhibitor. Endoscopy was repeated at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months to check for relapses. Healing rates were 61%-77% and 75%-85% at 4 and 8 weeks in the group receiving H2-blockers and misoprostol. Healing rates were 68% and 100% at days 14 and 28 with the proton pump inhibitor. The relapse rates within 3 months were 72%-86% and 100% respectively. This study indicates that the faster the ulcer healed, the earlier the relapse occurred